Despite warnings that it would undermine parental rights and cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, the Maryland legislature gave its final approval to SB 362.

Therefore barring something unforseen, starting on June 1, 2014, children in Maryland will be subject to compulsory attendance until they turn 17. And starting July 1, 2016, they will be subject to compulsory attendance until their 18th birthday.

In a late positive development, the Senate accepted the House amendments to the bill. Therefore the legal framework for homeschooling will remain unchanged, and as of June 1, 2014, students who have completed their program of home education are exempt from compliance.

The majority of Maryland lawmakers brushed aside the bill’s enormous price tag. The fiscal note attached to the bill estimated the cost at $56 million per year. Five years ago, Governor O’Malley’s task force estimated the cost at about $200 million per year.

Maryland citizens who love freedom now have a new challenge: between now and June 1, 2014, replace the lawmakers who voted in favor of SB 362 with lawmakers who will protect freedom!

HSLDA, Maryland Association of Christian Home Educators and Maryland Hand in Hand Homeschool worked together in amending the bill to protect the legal framework for homeschooling, and create a graduation exemption for homeschoolers.

Thank you for all your work in making phone calls, sending email, and visiting legislators!